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Roy Rogers - Split Decision
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Roy Rogers keeps one foot in the blues while venturing into different musical zones.By Al Hensley.
ROY ROGERS
Split Decision
Blind Pig/Only Blues Music
There are few slide guitarists who can match the dexterity of Roy Rogers, a California-based blues veteran who surfaced in the 80s, later being noted for his production work and performances with John Lee Hooker and others.
Split Decision marks Rogers' reunion with his Delta Rhythm Kings – bassist Steve Ehrmann and drummer Billy Lewis - for their first album together in seven years. Adding keyboards and sax to broaden sound textures, Rogers keeps one foot in the blues while venturing into different musical zones that clearly state his virtuosity.
Between the funky rhythms of 'Calm Before The Storm' and the grungy closing piece 'Walkin' The Levee', Rogers detours into jazzier terrain on the instrumental 'Rite Of Passage' and the acoustic duet with guitarist Ottmar Liebert 'Your Sweet Embrace'. 'River Of Tears', 'I Would Undo Anything' and 'Someone Like You' display his well-crafted technique as a singer/songwriter, 'Requiem For a Heavyweight' is an exercise in abstract blues and 'Bitter Rain' bewails the plight of Hurricane Katrina-devastated New Orleans.
Rogers' voice has grown richer with the passage of time and his song lyrics avoid cliches, even on the edgy blues of 'Patron Saint Of Pain', 'Little Queen Bee' and 'Holy Ghost Moan'.
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